LAS VEGAS, N.M. — Western New Mexico University (5-1) secured a decisive 76-58 victory over New Mexico Highlands University (0-7) on Saturday at the John A. Wilson Complex. This victory marks the Mustangs' fourth straight win heading into conference play, showcasing their strong form. The Mustangs outscored their opponent 38-22 in the paint and collected 14 steals to maintain control throughout the game.

"We are so well connected on and off the court," said Head Coach Mark Bunker. The guys are really starting to trust each other on both ends of the court. It makes our defense so much stronger."

Western New Mexico opened the game strongly, establishing an early lead through efficient scoring in the paint and quick transitions. Isaiah Broady (Chandler, AZ/Arizona Compass Prep) contributed with a successful free throw at 19:47, while Keylon Dorsey's (Houston, TX/Eisenhower High School) dunk at 16:54 following a steal by Cortaviaus Seales (Rock Island, IL/North Scott High School) marked a notable fast break. Despite some turnovers, the Mustangs maintained momentum with Carson Kelly's (Chandler, AZ/Chandler High School) layup at 7:35 extending their lead.

New Mexico Highlands increased its advantage by capitalizing on the Cowboys' turnovers, with Andre Harris (Mesa, AZ/Hillcrest Prep) and Tanner Poeschl (Fountain Hills, AZ/Skyline High School) delivering key baskets. Broady's layup with nine seconds remaining in the half capped a strong offensive performance. WNMU ended the first half leading 35–18. Notably, this victory was the Mustangs' second win over their instate rival NMHU this season, reinforcing their dominance in these matchups.

The Mustangs extended their lead with a strong start in the second half, highlighted by Dorsey's dunk at 19:33 and a 3-pointer from Seales at 18:57, pushing the score to 40–20. Harris contributed significantly, scoring multiple baskets and free throws to maintain momentum, and Kelly's free throws at 8:03 further increased their advantage. Despite N.M. Highlands' efforts to close the gap, WNMU maintained control, outscoring their opponent 41–40 in the half. The game ended with Western N.M. securing a decisive 76–58 victory.

Three Mustangs has double-digit points. Harris led the team with 18 points, converting 8 of 10 free throws, and added two blocks. Kelly contributed 15 points and recorded two steals. Seales scored 10 points, sinking two 3-pointers, and also tallied four steals. Nolan Brown made an impact defensively with four steals.

"Having veteran guys that love playing for each other is definitely part of the reason we have consistently seen guys score the ball well," said Bunker. "Another big part is these guys are very talented and put in a ton of work on their game."

Dontae Walker led the team with 18 points, making 5 of 13 field goals and converting 8 of 9 from the free-throw line. Latavious Morris contributed significantly on defense with two steals and added six points. Nikk Williams was active defensively, recording three steals and matching Ibrahima Sacko with six total rebounds. Lukas Turner also made a defensive impact with three steals while chipping in four points.

The Mustangs hold a record of 5-1 overall in the current season. They continue to play on the road, going to San Antonio, TX, to play St. Mary's on Dec. 4 for a 6:30pm MT tip-off.
 

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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).